What can You Do if You’re Attacked by a dog?

Dachshunds are not only the subject of attacks by other dogs, but could also attack.

Don Helverson, a dog expert and history teacher at Walter Reed Middle School in Studio City, Calif., has some serious advice about how to handle dog attacks.

Helverson says, ” Dog training would help avoid attacks. I applaud the animal rescue and adoption movements. I just wish there was more thought given to matching potential owners with dogs that are appropriate for them. Not all owners are able or willing to handle the needs or characteristics of certain animals. Difficult and dangerous dogs are sometimes adopted by inexperienced, poorly equipped owners.”

Helverson has statistics about dog bites, and how to handle them, along with a list of free pamphlets and advice, CLICK HERE.

About 800,000 people a year in the U.S. are bitten by dogs severely enough to require medical attention, according to the Web site of the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services.

The department recommends that the first step for victims is to seek medical help. But unless it’s your own pet who bit you, or you’re in critical condition, you should take a minute or two to gather data you may need as evidence.

Helverson has also recorded some video of people attacked by dogs, and their dramatic stories. CLICK HERE.

Have you been a victim of a dog bite, or your dog attacked? Tell us about it.